Breastfeeding is the next phase that the baby and mother will go through after the birth process. Even though most people think breastfeeding is something natural, many mothers are still confused about how to breastfeed their children properly. For Mommy who is still confused, see the full review below.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that breastfeeding has health benefits for both mother and baby. Doctors even recommend exclusive breastfeeding for six months. Here are the various benefits of breastfeeding that Mommy must know:
- Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for babies. The composition of breast milk will change as the baby grows so that the nutritional needs of the baby will always be met.
- Breastfeeding will help protect babies from various diseases, both in the short and long term. Babies who are breastfed have a lower risk of developing asthma, type 1 obesity, and sudden infant death syndrome. In addition, babies who regularly consume breast milk will also be protected from ear infections and stomach aches.
- Breastfeeding can reduce a mother’s risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Preparation before Breastfeeding
In order for the breastfeeding phase to go well, Mommy should make careful preparations several months before delivery, such as:
1. Expand Information About Breastfeeding
With the development of technology, now Mommy can directly access information about lactation from experts through social media. Mommy can also attend breastfeeding classes which are usually provided by the hospital.
2. Prepare practical household needs
Make some preparations related to household needs in a more practical way, such as preparing finished ingredients for cooking, frozen food, or subscribing to healthy catering.
3. Prepare Breastfeeding Supplies
One of the equipment that is important for breastfeeding mothers is nursing clothes. The recommended nursing clothes are clothes that have an opening on the chest to make it easier for Mommy to breastfeed, such as the Perfect Nursing Tee from Belly Bandit. This nursing shirt is made of viscose which is soft, soft and comfortable for Moms to use every day. This shirt consists of two layers that have openings, making it easier for Mommy to breastfeed. Perfect Nursing Tee is anti-stretch and conforms to the body, so it can be used during and after pregnancy.
Stages and the Right Way in Breastfeeding
Moms can feed the baby by sitting or lying down as long as Mommy and baby are comfortable. Make sure Mommy pays attention to how the baby puts the nipple and areola into the mouth (attachment). Quoted from the NHS (National Health Service), the following are things that must be considered in order to breastfeed the baby properly:
- Make sure Mommy and baby are in a comfortable position. While breastfeeding, your shoulders and arms should be relaxed, if necessary, use a pillow.
- The position of the baby’s head and body is in a straight line, because the baby will have difficulty swallowing if the head and neck are bent.
- Hold the baby close to Mommy, with the baby facing towards the breast. Position the baby’s nose in line with the nipple, thus encouraging him to open his mouth wide and attach well to the breast.
- Let the baby suckle on its own, avoid putting the breast into the baby’s mouth, so that bad attachment does not occur.
What to Do after Finishing Breastfeeding?
After breastfeeding, it is important for Mommy to expel any air bubbles that may be in the baby’s stomach. This can make the baby uncomfortable. Mommy can support the baby’s head and neck, then make sure his stomach and back are straight and not curled. Then gently rub or pat his back. Do this in just a few minutes. Breastfeeding has many benefits for mothers and babies that are a shame to miss. Pay attention and apply how to breastfeed the baby properly, so that the nutrition is fulfilled and Mommy has a pleasant breastfeeding experience.
